Trump's Waiver of Russian Sanctions Outrages Congress
US President Trump's suspension of sanctions against Russia and announcement of a diesel deal sparked reactions in Congress.
US President Donald Trump's indefinite suspension of sanctions against Russia and announcement of a diesel fuel deal with Vladimir Putin were met with outrage and concern among members of Congress.
US President Donald Trump's sudden decision to lift Russian sanctions drew sharp reactions from members of Congress. While Trump cited national security concerns, US national interests, and high energy prices as reasons for this decision, he pointed to the diesel deal made with Vladimir Putin, which provides for Russia to supply fuel to the US. Lawmakers from both parties, including Rick Scott, Thom Tillis, John Cornyn, Chuck Schumer, and Elizabeth Warren, condemned the move, describing it as irresponsible and unconscionable.
As developments continued following the known sanctions package—the Lindsey Graham Russia Sanctions Act prepared to impose heavy tariffs on countries importing Russian oil—Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that it could take 60 days for Trump to review the global and US economic impacts. Meanwhile, Representative Gregory Meeks introduced a bill to block the diesel deal, though it was noted that Congress could not take immediate action because it was recessed until after Election Day.